Last week, Flannista attended a company annual meeting that in more profitable times was one of the highlights of the year for its associates. Alas, the meeting budget was slashed to a shadow of its former self as you can see for yourself in the photo of the stage above. In previous years, rented luscious ferns and other potted plants adorned the stage and podium. What's more, the podium proudly displayed the company logo. The meeting always opened with a fun video featuring the associates and closed with a delicious buffet lunch.
This year, a photo slide-presentation of associates played while associates made their way to round tables, atop of which were pitchers of ice water and lemonade as well as a small tray of cheese and crackers garnished with fruit. The powers-that-be knew that the meeting itself would be difficult as they had recently informed associates that they would not be getting their pay raises or bonuses. Also, 2009 had produced two rounds of lay-offs. How could associates be enticed to come and listen to executive perspectives on the achievements of 2009 and the goals of 2010?
The enticement is contained in the two white plastic bags to the right of the podium above. What's the bonus in the bags? If you guess, the Sassistas! will award you with the EXACT SAME BONUS!
In the meantime, do you attend and/or have you ever attended company annual meetings? What was your experience? Potted plants or no potted plants? Ice water in pitchers or bottled water? Let us know.
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